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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Drill Rig Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$26

$48

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Indiana is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $29.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Drill Rig Operator?

As a Drill Rig Operator, your daily responsibilities typically include setting up, operating, and maintaining drilling rigs, monitoring equipment performance, and adhering to strict safety protocols. You'll often work closely with a team of drillers, assistants, and engineers, collaborating to ensure precise drilling according to project specifications. Regular tasks may also involve equipment inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and recording drilling data. The role requires adaptability, as you may work in varying weather conditions and different locations, depending on the project.

How to get hired on a drilling rig?

To get hired as a drill rig operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience, and often a certification such as Well Control or OSHA safety training. Employers look for physical fitness, mechanical skills, and the ability to work in challenging environments, with on-the-job training provided for specific equipment and safety procedures.

What is a Drill Rig Operator job?

A Drill Rig Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drilling equipment to bore holes for various purposes, such as mining, construction, or oil and gas extraction. They set up, position, and control drilling rigs, monitor operations, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Operators must have technical knowledge of machinery, the ability to read blueprints, and an understanding of soil and rock formations. The role often requires physical endurance and adherence to strict safety regulations.

How much do oil rigs get paid?

Drill rig operators typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the rig. Overtime, certifications, and working in remote locations can increase earnings, with some experienced operators making over $120,000 per year.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and familiarity with machinery, tools, and safety standards is essential for the role.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

A drill rig operator typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drill Rig Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drill Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a solid understanding of drilling processes, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety regulations such as OSHA, and certifications like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies enable safe, efficient drilling operations and effective teamwork in demanding outdoor environments.

Driller Assistant

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

341st of 369 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.
Position Overview
Driller's Assistant - Build a Trade. Explore New Places. Learn From the Best.
Are you someone who enjoys working with your hands, solving problems, and spending your days somewhere other than behind a desk? A career in drilling offers the opportunity to learn a specialized trade, work alongside experienced drillers, and play a critical role in projects that help shape communities.
As a Driller's Assistant, you'll be part of a two- or three-person crew performing geotechnical investigations, environmental drilling, monitoring well installations, and soil exploration projects. Every day is different-you may be working in a city, at a construction site, in a remote field location, or traveling to projects across the region.
You'll assist with operating and maintaining drilling rigs, handling drill rods and tooling, collecting samples, setting up equipment, and keeping projects moving safely and efficiently. You'll learn the ins and outs of drilling from experienced professionals while gaining hands-on mechanical, technical, and construction experience.
What to Expect
  • Work outdoors in all types of weather and environments.
  • Travel to project sites locally and overnight as needed.
  • Operate equipment, tools, and support vehicles.
  • Help assemble and disassemble drilling equipment and maintain rigs.
  • Be part of a close-knit crew that relies on teamwork and communication.
  • Gain experience in a highly specialized industry with opportunities to grow into a Driller, Crew Chief, Superintendent, or Operations leadership role.

Who Thrives in This Role?
  • Individuals who prefer active, hands-on work over sitting behind a desk.
  • People who enjoy mechanics, equipment, and problem-solving.
  • Those who appreciate variety, travel, and working in different locations.
  • Candidates who take pride in safety, reliability, and being part of a hardworking team.

Drilling isn't for everyone-it requires early mornings, physical work, and flexibility in scheduling. But for those who enjoy the lifestyle, it can become more than a job; it can become a long-term career with strong earning potential and opportunities for advancement.
Check out our video about our Drillers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diJo35VdE70
Responsibilities
  • Collect and conduct testing of soil, concrete, and other construction materials to project specifications.
  • Ensure all testing equipment is properly functioning, maintained per company and manufacturer policies, and kept within its required calibration cycle.
  • Operate various tools and equipment, including pneumatic jackhammers for breaking concrete and water/steam pressure washers for cleaning drilling equipment, rods, augers, bits, casings, trucks, and trailers.
  • Perform manual labor tasks, including assembling and disassembling drilling equipment, rig setup, and site preparation.
  • Maintain and clean drilling rigs, trucks, and work areas to ensure equipment is in good working condition and meets safety standards.
  • Accurately complete daily time and labor reports in accordance with company policy and submit required paperwork on time.
  • Properly maintain assigned company vehicles, scheduling oil changes, checking fluid levels, and ensuring regular upkeep of both the interior and exterior.
  • Report to job sites on time, follow all safety protocols, and accurately enter work time and project details daily.
  • Strictly adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and industry regulations, ensuring compliance with OSHA and workplace safety guidelines.
  • Adapt to changing schedules and work hours based on project demands, including the possibility of overnight, weekend, or extended-hour shifts as needed.
  • Travel as required to job sites within the designated region, which may include local, out-of-town, or extended stays for larger projects.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals and company initiatives.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 0 to 3 years of experience in Civil, Geotechnical, or Environmental Sciences Field Services preferred.
  • Prior experience working on construction sites, geotechnical drilling, or environmental field services is a plus.
  • 40-hour OSHA training preferred; must be able to pass and maintain OSHA 40HR certification class.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required; CDL preferred or willingness to obtain.
  • Basic computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Field Data Collection (FDC) software or similar industry tools.
  • Ability to read, write, and interpret blueprints, procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to drilling, safety, and project requirements.
  • Effective time management, problem-solving, and attention to detail, ensuring efficient and accurate documentation of work.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating a strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate hand and power tools, including pneumatic jackhammers, pressure washers, and other drilling-related equipment.
  • Physical capability to lift and carry up to 75 lbs., stand for extended periods, and perform strenuous labor in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to travel and work flexible hours, including overnight stays, weekends, and varying schedules as needed for project demands.

Travel Requirements
This position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.
#LI-CB1
Physical Demands & Work Environment
This position primarily works in an outdoor work environment, regularly exposed to varying field conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, fields, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels, common in active construction and industrial environments.
  • Exposure to environmental elements including dirt, dust, sun, heat, humidity, and adverse weather conditions.
    The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:
  • Ability to lift and/or carry 35 to 75 lbs. up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling tools, and operating equipment.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for fieldwork and inspections.
  • Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate in noisy environments and with project teams.
  • Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit).

EEO Statement
UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here

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About Universal Engineering Sciences

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Engineering Sciences, based in Orlando, FL, US, is a reputable name in the field of geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, construction materials testing, and inspection services. With an impressive industry presence of over six decades since its establishment in 1964, Universal Engineering Sciences specializes in providing engineering consulting services that effectively address multiple civil, structural, and geotechnical challenges. Their extensive service portfolio includes environmental assessments, field testing services, laboratory testing services, and quality control consulting, among others. As a stalwart advocate of integrity, excellence, service, and people, Universal Engineering Sciences takes pride in delivering exceptional services that realize their mission of setting industry standards through technical superiority and efficient communication.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US

Year founded

1964

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